How to use the command 'info' (with examples)

How to use the command 'info' (with examples)

The ‘info’ command is used to read documentation stored in the info format. The Info format is a hypertext documentation system widely used on Unix-like operating systems. It provides a way to browse and navigate through extensive documentation.

Use case 1: Start reading top-level directory menu

Code:

info

Motivation:

The motivation for using this example is to start reading the top-level directory menu in the info format. This is useful when you want to explore the available documentation and understand the different sections and topics.

Explanation:

This use case of the ‘info’ command has no additional arguments. It simply starts reading the top-level directory menu.

Example Output:

The output will display the top-level directory menu, listing the available sections and topics of the documentation.

Use case 2: Start reading at given menu item node from top-level directory

Code:

info menu_item

Motivation:

The motivation for using this example is to directly access a specific menu item node from the top-level directory. This is useful when you already know the specific topic you want to read and don’t need to browse through the entire documentation.

Explanation:

In this use case, ‘menu_item’ is the argument that represents the specific menu item node you want to start reading from. It allows you to directly access the desired topic within the documentation.

Example Output:

The output will display the documentation for the specified menu item, providing detailed information about the selected topic.

Use case 3: Start reading at second menu item within first menu item manual

Code:

info first_menu_item second_menu_item

Motivation:

The motivation for using this example is to access a specific menu item within a specific menu item manual. This is useful when you want to read a specific section or topic within a larger manual.

Explanation:

In this use case, ‘first_menu_item’ is the argument that represents the first menu item manual, and ‘second_menu_item’ is the argument that represents the second menu item within the first menu item manual. It allows you to navigate through nested menus and access the desired topic within the documentation.

Example Output:

The output will display the documentation for the specified second menu item within the first menu item manual, providing detailed information about the selected topic.

Conclusion

The ‘info’ command is a powerful tool for reading documentation stored in the info format. With its various options, you can explore the available documentation, access specific topics, and navigate through nested menus. By familiarizing yourself with the different use cases of the ‘info’ command, you can make the most out of the documentation available in the info format.

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